WASHINGTON, United States, North America: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signalled new economic pressure measures on Iran on August 13. He said Washington would announce them next week.
Bessent told Newsmax that the measures would create economic isolation “never seen” in history. He did not identify the planned actions, according to a Reuters report.
The warning came as the United States maintained a naval blockade and talks over the Strait of Hormuz stalled.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US Navy could sustain the blockade indefinitely by rotating ships. Iran has demanded sanctions relief and access to frozen assets before reopening the waterway, Reuters reported.
Read: Strait of Hormuz Control: Iran Rejects Trump’s Claim
The US Treasury imposed sanctions earlier on July 29. It targeted firms and vessels allegedly generating revenue for Iran through maritime insurance and oil shipments.
Read: Trump Iran Strategy Shifts to Sanctions, Strikes Stay Open
The United Arab Emirates separately blamed Iran for attacks on two Abu Dhabi National Oil Company vessels in Hormuz. The Emirates News Agency reported no injuries. ADNOC said crews had brought the situation under control.
